Remote Assessments: A Guide to the Basics of Testing in Blackboard

As the end of the semester looms, many faculty are wondering things like: “How can I assess what my students are learning?” and “How can I create an equivalent to my classroom test in Blackboard? These questions have become even more pertinent with the campus closure extending through the end of the term and through our usual finals week. While we certainly don’t have all the answers, we do have some resources that can help.

An aside here: yes, we do have guidance for creating tests and quizzes in Blackboard, but we encourage faculty to also be thinking about alternative forms of evaluating students during this stressful time. As the old saying goes, “Necessity is the mother of invention” so don’t be afraid to get creative.

Using Tests in Blackboard

Want to give an old fashioned quiz or test? We’ll show you how to do it in Blackboard. If you have any questions (sometimes the process can be tricky for those new to it) please email us at learningtech@cod.edu!

Editing a Test

Test Feedback

For additional support in creating tests in Blackboard, you can find information on the Tests, Pools and Surveys section of the Blackboard Help site.

Accessibility and Accomodations

Students will still need to receive any accommodations during an online test that they would receive in the classroom. In Blackboard, you can give them extra time, though you may also need to adjust in other ways depending on student needs.

Even if you don’t have students who you know need accommodations, it’s key to keep accessibility in mind when developing any assessments. This ensures that there will be an equal alternative available to those who require it or who may need it due to lack of access to technology. Remember that students need may be in flux at this time and many who may not have needed accommodation previously may need it now.

If you need help in delivering assessments to students in your course who require accommodations, please contact Access and Accommodations using this Google form. If you need help or advice on making course materials more accessible, we’re happy to help!

Finding Support

We realize that remote assessments may be uncharted territory for many of our faculty. But you don’t have to do it alone. There are many places you can find support. For help with: